Pokemon GO to End Support for Certain Devices Soon

Summary

• Pokemon GO will soon be unplayable on some older mobile devices following a pair of updates that will end support for 32-bit Android devices.
• Players using affected devices are advised to save login info and upgrade phones to continue playing after the updates drop in March and June 2025.
• Despite the inconvenience, the coming year holds promise for the Pokemon franchise with planned and rumored game releases for 2025.

Pokemon GO, the beloved augmented reality walking game that sends players on real-world adventures to catch and battle Pokemon, is set to become unplayable on certain older mobile devices starting in March 2025. This change will specifically impact 32-bit Android devices, prompting long-time fans who have yet to upgrade their phones to consider doing so if they wish to continue playing.

Since its launch in July 2016, Pokemon GO has celebrated nearly nine years of captivating gameplay, reaching a peak of 232 million active players in its first year. Despite a slight decline, the game remains immensely popular, with over 110 million players reported active in the 30 days leading up to December 2024.

To enhance performance on newer devices, Niantic has announced plans to discontinue support for 32-bit Android devices. The official Pokemon GO website revealed on January 9 that updates scheduled for March and June 2025 will affect older phone models. The first update targets Android devices that downloaded the game via the Samsung Galaxy store, while the second update will impact 32-bit Android devices that obtained Pokemon GO through Google Play. The development team has listed several phones that will lose support, although 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain compatible.

Pokemon GO Ending Support for the Following Devices

• Samsung Galaxy S4, S5, Note 3, J3
• Sony Xperia Z2, Z3
• Motorola Moto G (1st generation)
• LG Fortune, Tribute
• OnePlus One
• HTC One (M8)
• ZTE Overture 3
• Certain Android devices released before 2015

Affected players are encouraged to save their login information securely, as they can still access their accounts after upgrading to a compatible device. However, until they switch to a newer phone, they won't be able to play, including using any purchased Pokecoins.

While this news may be disappointing for some, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. Anticipated releases include Pokemon Legends: Z-A, along with rumors of remakes of Pokemon Black and White and a new entry in the Let's Go series. As for Pokemon GO, a potential Pokemon Presents event on February 27 might shed light on future updates and events.